Many new age artists enjoy choosing generic album titles that convey little about the music they play, but the spirited acoustic guitarist
Govi proves the exception to this rule. Titles from his catalog --
Passion & Grace,
Guitar Odyssey, and
Heart of a Gypsy in particular -- reflect his basic intent to take us to places within ourself with music that's graceful and seductive, gentle but emotionally powerful. This recording draws together 12 gently exotic, flamenco-based moments from his six previous Real Music recordings. Tunes like "Tears of Joy" lope along with a cool strut, almost like a character whistling to himself in an old Western town. "Magellan's Beat" features a hypnotic flamenco strum enhanced by haunting echoing Native American flutes; on this tune,
Govi's guitar is very much like that of Lobo from the gypsy violin-guitar duo Willie & Lobo. The title track is less ethnic -- just a simple, dreamy guitar melody. "Sangria" rolls casually along like a samba enhanced with an echoing electric melody. "Lover's Moon" also showcases
Govi's way with cool electric blues. And who can resist the nature sounds at the beginning of the whimsical "New Dawn"?
Govi is more intent on creating a gentle, swaying vibe than anything too explosive or dynamic, and our inner peace seems to be the goal of his exotic meditation music. ~ Jonathan Widran